As a senior citizen living in Florida, you may be wondering if you need a fishing license to enjoy the state’s abundant waterways. The good news is that Florida offers several exemptions and discounts for seniors when it comes to fishing licenses. In this article, we’ll explore the details of these exemptions and provide you with the information you need to fish legally in Florida in 2024.
Florida’s Resident Senior Citizen Hunting and Fishing Certificate
One of the most convenient options for Florida seniors is the Resident 65 Hunt/Fish Certificate. This certificate is available at no cost to Florida residents who are 65 years of age or older. You can obtain the certificate online at GoOutdoorsFlorida.com or at your local county tax collector’s office.
The Resident 65 Hunt/Fish Certificate covers both freshwater and saltwater fishing, as well as hunting. It serves as proof that you are exempt from needing a recreational hunting, freshwater fishing, or saltwater fishing license.
Proof of Age and Residency
If you prefer not to obtain the Resident 65 Hunt/Fish Certificate, you can still fish for free in Florida by providing proof of your age and residency. Acceptable forms of proof include a valid Florida driver’s license or ID card.
By presenting your proof of age and residency, you can fish without needing to purchase a recreational hunting, freshwater fishing, or saltwater fishing license. However, it’s important to note that these exemptions do not apply to the federal duck stamp requirement.
Exceptions and Limitations
While Florida seniors enjoy generous exemptions when it comes to fishing licenses, there are a few exceptions and limitations to keep in mind:
- The exemptions do not apply to the federal duck stamp requirement.
- If you are fishing from a vessel, you will need to have a valid recreational saltwater vessel license issued in the name of the vessel operator.
- If you are fishing from a pier, you will need a valid saltwater pier license.
- The exemptions do not apply to freshwater fishing in fish management areas within your home county.
It’s always a good idea to familiarize yourself with the specific regulations and exemptions that apply to the type of fishing you plan to engage in.
Where to Get Your Florida Fishing License
If you don’t qualify for the senior exemptions or prefer to purchase a fishing license, you can do so through several convenient methods:
- Online: You can buy a fishing license online at the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission website or through the FishHuntFL app.
- Phone: You can call the toll-free number 1-888-347-4356 (1-888-FISH-FLO) to purchase your license.
- In-Person: Fishing licenses are available at many retail locations throughout Florida, including Walmart Supercenter, Bass Pro Shops, bait and tackle shops, sporting goods stores, gun shops, and department stores.
When purchasing your license, you’ll need to decide whether you want a freshwater fishing license, a saltwater fishing license, or a combination license that covers both. The cost of the license will vary depending on your residency status and the type of license you choose.
Conclusion
As a senior citizen living in Florida, you have several options when it comes to fishing licenses. The Resident 65 Hunt/Fish Certificate and proof of age and residency exemptions make it easy for you to enjoy fishing without the added expense of a license. By understanding the exemptions and limitations, you can fish legally and responsibly in Florida’s waterways.
Whether you prefer freshwater or saltwater fishing, Florida offers abundant opportunities for seniors to enjoy the sport. With the right information and proper licensing, you can make the most of your fishing adventures in the Sunshine State in 2024 and beyond.